Return Declined for Product Despite Package Never Opened and Used

On January 2026, I ordered and received a stove element. After more than a month, I decided to return the item as I had not used it and it was no longer needed. The product listing on the Takealot website explicitly stated that the item was eligible for return within 6 months. Based on this information, I processed the return request, which was subsequently approved.

However, when I checked the return status today, I was shocked to find that the return had been declined with no explanation. I also received absolutely no update, no communication, or email regarding this sudden cancellation.

Upon contacting customer support, I was informed that the return window for 'change of mind' purchases is only 30 days, and since my return was processed on day 41, it was declined. This directly contradicts the 6-month return eligibility stated on the product page, which I re**** upon when making the purchase and initiating the return.

The product remains unused, brand new, and still sealed in its original packaging. For a return requested merely 11 days beyond the 30-day "change of mind" policy (which itself contradicts the advertised 6-month policy), Takealot chose to decline the refund. This level of service and failure to honor advertised policies is unacceptable.

This incident is compounded by a pattern of increasingly frustrating policy changes and poor service. Previously, customers could use vouchers received from Takealot purchases to buy airtime—a convenient feature that added value to the shopping experience. Due to internal policy changes, I am now unable to use Takealot vouchers for airtime purchases.

In addition, the constant shifting of rules and the existence of contradictory policies are what ultimately make the customer experience extremely unpleasant. Due to consistently poor customer experiences, I am unlikely to make any further purchases from Takealot again!